New Grants Lead to New Beginnings for Bolingbrook Park District

Playground Replacement Grant

BBolingbrook Park District is pleased to announce three grants that have been secured for improving community infrastructure and our parks. These grants will go towards a variety of capital replacement projects, including: light replacements at Lily Cache Sports Field, roof replacement at Annerino Community Center, and playground replacements.

Lily Cache Sports Field Lights

Chris Finn, our Buildings, Grounds & Natural Resources Director was happy to provide important details regarding the grant received and why this project is so important for Bolingbrook Park District and the entire community. Despite running into some dilemmas regarding the supply chain of materials needed, ultimately the grant was reapplied for and then approved by ComEd in June. 152 brand new LED lights have been scheduled to be positioned at the field in July. Originally, the total cost for these lights was priced at $340,732.50, but thanks to this grant, the District is saving $273,552.50. The project is estimated to bring annual savings of about $19,750 to the Park District. This high-quality LED light system brings lower costs on yearly maintenance overall for Bolingbrook Park District and it brings more simplicity to our staff because it can be controlled by any device with bluetooth.

Annerino Community Center Roof Replacement Funding

Additionally, with the advocacy of Representative Dagmara Avelar, Bolingbrook Park District has successfully secured funding in the state budget for the roof replacement at Annerino Community Center. This grant is worth $120,000 and will tremendously assist our facility. Executive Director of Bolingbrook Park District, Mike Selep, writes, “This is a critical project for the district, and this funding will help us to be able to complete the project in a timely manner without sacrificing other programs, services or projects.”

Finally, with the help of Representative Janet Yang Rohr, Bolingbrook Park District has secured an additional grant worth $142,000 that will go towards assisting the replacement of two playgrounds in the community. Champions Park and Lilac Park playgrounds will have new and improved designs by Spring 2024, with hopes of completing construction in Fall 2024. “We greatly appreciate Representative Yang Rohr advocating for us to help serve the children of the community. The costs associated with playground replacement have dramatically increased over the past several years. These funds will help us continue to replace vital infrastructure without having to sacrifice service or critical updates throughout the district,” said Mike Selep. While full planning is still being rolled out, there is no doubt that these projects will help bring smiles to children’s faces. Bolingbrook Park District Board President, Jerry Hix, notes, “Playgrounds are fundamental components of our parks. Having the ability to update them on a regular basis enhances the quality of life for the children of our community. We are extremely grateful for Representative Yang Rohr’s efforts to provide the district with needed funding”.

Visit bolingbrookparks.org for more information on the District.